Protecting Your Child

When you keep your baby safe, you show him you will protect him. This builds his trust in you, in himself and in the world around him.

Here are some things you can do to keep him safe:

• Practice safe sleep habits. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends putting your baby to sleep alone, on his back, in a safe crib with a firm mattress without pillows, blankets or toys. A baby sleeping sack will keep him cozy and warm.
• Use a safe car seat. Always use a rear-facing infant car seat that is properly installed in the middle back seat of your car. There are places in your community, like the police department, where you can have a car seat installed and checked for you.
• Keep your eyes and a hand on your baby at all times when he is on the changing table, your bed or any other high surface. He can roll over when you least expect it.
• Baby Proof. Look around your home, for things that might be harmful to your baby. Remove small, sharp, or other dangerous objects from reach, and use baby-proofing tools, like gates and locks, to keep your baby away from doors, stairways, toilets, and other spaces where your baby could fall or pinch fingers.
• NEVER allow anyone to shake, roughly handle or hit your baby. Not at any time, for any reason. As a parent, chances are you aren’t getting enough sleep, and you may not be as patient as usual. Keep track of your own stress level and that of anyone else who might be caring for your baby. If you feel you might hurt your baby at any time, put the baby in the crib and call the New York State Parent Connection Helpline at 800-CHILDREN.

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